Alex Iwobi says he has specific instructions from the Super Eagles coach and it doesn’t include being the playmaker on the pitch.

Nigeria’s head coach, Jose Peseiro has opted for a more defensive approach at this Africa Cup of Nations; a strategy that has limited the creative capabilities of his players, in particular Iwobi.

The versatile midfielder, however, defended his new role and insists it is for the greater good of the team.

“I am meant to manage and work for the team it doesn’t do much for me when we have creative players upfront whether it is Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon; there’s a lot of creativity in there.

“So the role me and Frank are told to do is manage the game; as best as we can, but first and foremost defend as the team.

“There’s a lot of creative players and I’m just trying to do my job for the team, and if there’s anything to help the team win, it’s what I’m prepared to do.”